Category: Powertrain
Supercharger
A belt-driven compressor that forces air into the engine for increased power output.
Unlike turbochargers, superchargers are mechanically driven by the engine via belt or chain. This provides immediate power delivery without turbo lag, at the cost of parasitic losses (it takes engine power to spin the compressor). Common types include roots, twin-screw, and centrifugal superchargers, each with different power delivery characteristics.
Related Concepts
TurbochargerNaturally AspiratedBoost Pressure